The AFC/M23 said the collection of weapons in Uvira was deliberately carried out ahead of its planned withdrawal from the city, as part of what it described as a confidence-building measure linked to the Doha Peace Process.
In a written statement dated December 15, 2025, the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC/M23) said it had decided to unilaterally disengage from Uvira following “significant progress” in the Doha talks, including the signing of the Doha Framework Agreement on November 15, 2025.
The movement said securing weapons before withdrawal was aimed at preventing renewed violence and protecting civilians during the transition.
Earlier, AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka said fighters, working with local residents, had already secured at least 125 weapons and 25 machine guns, with further collections underway.
He said the weapons were voluntarily handed over after residents identified their locations, adding that there had been no combat when AFC/M23 entered Uvira.
In its statement, signed by AFC/M23 coordinator Corneille Nangaa Yobeluo, the group warned that previous withdrawals had been exploited by FARDC and allied Wazalendo militias to reoccupy areas and target civilians accused of sympathizing with the movement.
AFC/M23 said the disarmament operation was therefore essential to avoid arms being reused by militias once its forces leave the city.
The group called on the guarantors of the peace process to ensure Uvira’s demilitarization after its withdrawal, including civilian protection, safeguarding of infrastructure, and ceasefire monitoring by a neutral force.
It also said the weapons recovery was intended to allow economic, religious, and community life in Uvira to continue without disruption as political and security arrangements are put in place.